ALICE is a United Way acronym that stands for "Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed." ALICE households earn more than the official U.S. poverty level but less than the basic cost of living. Download the United Way ALICE Report.

How many ALICE households are in Suburban Essex?

There are 10,549 households (18%) struggling, with 2,153 (4%) living below the U.S. poverty line and 8,396 (14%) falling into the ALICE population. (Due to the fact that these towns represent only a portion of Essex county, the ALICE calculations are based on an average of 2006-2010 data).

What does it cost to afford the basic necessities in Essex County?

Based on the Household Survival Budget (see below), it takes $49,038 for a family of two adults, an infant and toddler to afford the basics – more than double the U.S. poverty rate of $23,050.

The Household Survival Budget for a single adult is $23,209 compared to the U.S. poverty rate of $11,170.

Where does ALICE live in Suburban Essex?

United Way of Northern New Jersey at work in Suburban Essex

United Way of Northern New Jersey is working to advance the common good by focusing on local issues in the areas of Education, Income, and Health, the very basics to lead a good life. Everyone wins when children living in our communities succeed in school and achieve their potential; when families become financially stable and independent; and when individuals are able to achieve and maintain good health throughout the stages of their lives.

At United Way, we aim to create long-lasting community change by addressing the underlying causes of the most significant local and regional issues. The following initiatives help address local issues and ultimately improve the quality of life for all in northern New Jersey.